Uganda’s aviation sector is witnessing one of its most exciting periods of growth in recent years, with investors and airline operators showing unprecedented interest in the country’s air transport industry. This optimism was on full display at the 53rd Air Services Licensing Committee meeting convened by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) in Kampala, where a packed gathering of industry stakeholders signaled rising confidence in the future of aviation.
The licensing session attracted fifteen applications from companies seeking permission to operate or expand air services in Uganda. Of these, ten were new applications while five came from existing operators seeking licence renewals or additional approvals. The strong response reflects increasing demand for air transport services and growing belief that Uganda is becoming an attractive destination for aviation investment.
New entrants hoping to secure operating licences include Cubic Air SMC Limited, Misk Air Limited, Flight Training Centre, Premier Airlines Limited, Ubuntu Air Limited, Asante Aviation Limited, Mungufeni Aviation Uganda Limited, Arasus Aviation Limited, and Air Serv Limited. Established operators such as Eagle Air Limited, Kampala Executive Aviation, Transafrik Uganda Limited, Grand Air Services Limited, and AIM Air are also seeking to strengthen their presence in the market through renewed or expanded licences.
Speaking during the opening of the meeting, UCAA Acting Director General Olive Birungi Lumonya said the licensing process plays a critical role in ensuring a transparent and well-regulated aviation industry. She emphasized that public participation remains central to the process while highlighting the sector’s encouraging performance across key indicators, including passenger and cargo traffic.
Recent figures released by UCAA paint a positive picture of the industry’s trajectory. Entebbe International Airport handled 189,130 international passengers in April 2026, underscoring the steady recovery and growth of air travel. Cargo volumes also climbed to 4,823 metric tonnes, demonstrating the airport’s growing importance as a trade and logistics gateway. The restoration of airspace access in parts of the Middle East further contributed to improved operations and connectivity.
Alongside rising traffic, government investment in aviation infrastructure is reshaping the country’s transport landscape. Modernization works at Entebbe International Airport continue to enhance capacity and service delivery, while major upgrades are underway at regional airports in Arua, Gulu, Kasese, Kisoro, Pakuba, and Kidepo. These projects are expected to unlock new economic opportunities by improving access to tourism destinations and commercial centers.
Among the flagship developments is the construction of Kidepo International Airport in Karenga District, a project worth more than USD 72 million. Supported by funding from the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the United Arab Emirates, the airport will include a modern terminal, cargo handling facilities, and a runway capable of accommodating large aircraft. Once operational, it is expected to transform the Karamoja region into a more accessible destination for tourism, trade, and investment.
UCAA Board Chairperson Justice Dr. Steven B.K. Kavuma said Uganda’s aviation industry now stands on a stronger foundation than ever before. With 25 licensed air operators, air service agreements with 64 countries, and 20 international airlines currently serving Entebbe International Airport, the country is steadily strengthening its position within the regional aviation market. As new investors enter the sector and airport developments gather pace, Uganda appears firmly set on a flight path toward becoming one of East Africa’s leading aviation hubs.
